We ensure that each Jewish Heritage Tour leaves you with treasured memories. Our itinerary combines explorations of Jewish history in Asia Minor; important local sites of interest; cultural delights, and the company of like-minded travelers. You’ll enjoy ease, camaraderie, and in-depth educational content with our knowledgeable guides.
Visiting Ahrida Synagogue can be done only with appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. We send a request letter to management with passport details and full names of visitors as an official Travel Agency latest one week before than tour date.
The visitors have to share passport details after booking this tour. Visiting the Synagogues and the Jewish Museums requires permits from Chief Rabia and you will need to present your passport during the visits.
Also Ahrida Synagogue is a functional Synagogue and is not a museum. They charge donation 45EURO per person. When we send our guest passport reservation, we send donation via bank.
Pickup included
Ahrida Synagogue was built by Romaniotes (Greek Jews), dating back to the 1430s, from the city of Ohrid (called 'Ahrid' in Greek) in what was then the Ottoman Empire and is now North Macedonia. Neve Shalom is said to have moved to Constantinople more than 550 years ago Sephardi Jews arrived in the Ottoman Empire from the Iberian peninsula beginning in 1492, and soon were a larger group of Jews in population than the Romaniotes. The Romaniotes of Istanbul, as in many communities, including Thessaloniki became assimilated into the Sephardic culture and adopted the Sephardic liturgy as well as the language of the Sefardim, Judezmo. The Ahrida synagogue building, one of the two ancient synagogues in Istanbul's Golden Horn. Ahrida Synagogue is known for its boat-shaped tevah (the reading platform, known in Ashkenazi communities as a bimah). It is also the only synagogue in Istanbul at which Sabbatai Zevi, founder of the Jewish Sabbatean movement, prayed.
Yanbol Synagogue was built by Sephardi Jews who moved from the Bulgarian town of Yambol to Istanbul during the 15th century. The synagogue is also known as the Bulgarian Synagogue owing to the origin of the community. It was constructed in the 18th century. However, it underwent repairs during the end of the 19th century thus the structure today is not the original. Today, the synagogue is only open for Shabbat services due to a decrease in the Jewish community in the area.
Balat district is in the old city on the European side of Istanbul, on the western shore of the Golden Horn. Historically, it was the center of the Jewish community in Istanbul.
As in neighbouring Fener, Balat's back streets are lined with colorful small stone two and three-storey terraced houses and a few grander mansions. It is one of highlights of Istanbul to visit. Many of the houses have been repainted in bright colours to give a distinctive feel to the neighborhood.
Neve Shalom is the central and largest Sephardic synagogue of Istanbul. It is open to service especially on Shabbats, High Holidays, bar mitzvahs, funerals and weddings.
The synagogue was built in response to an increase in the Jewish population in the old Galata neighborhood in the late 1930s. A Jewish primary school was torn down in 1949 for that purpose and the synagogue was built on its ruins. The construction completed in 1951.
Jewish Museum in Istanbul includes sections on the intermingling cultures of Jewish and Muslim Turks and ethnographic articles that depict the traditions of Turkish Jews, as well as the historical accounts of the Jewish odyssey from Spain to Turkey. So It is totally different museum than other museums in western countries.
The Galata Tower is an old Genoese tower in the Galata part of the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, Turkey. It was built as a watchtower at the highest point of the (lost) Walls of Galata district. the tower is now an exhibition space and museum of Tourism Ministry. It is a symbol of Beyoğlu and Istanbul.
The Ashkenazi Synagogue is an Ashkenazi synagogue located near the Galata Tower in Karaköy It is the only currently active Ashkenazi synagogue in Istanbul open to visits and prayers. The synagogue was founded by Jews of Austrian origin in 1900. It is also the last remaining synagogue from a total of three built by Ashkenazim, as the population of Ashkenazi Jews accounts for 4 percent of the total Jewish population of Turkey. Visits to the synagogue can be done during weekday mornings only with appointments.
A gorgeous, Gaudí-esque stairway constructed in Istanbul by a prominent Jewish family. Kamondo Family had built these stairs for their kids in 1860s to go to the school.
Turkey, a transcontinental country, bridges Europe and Asia, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the serene beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, Turkey is a destination that caters to a wide range of interests.
A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Its massive dome and stunning mosaics are a testament to its historical significance.
One of the most well-preserved ancient cities, Ephesus features impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.
Known for its unique rock formations and underground cities, Cappadocia offers hot air balloon rides, hiking, and cave dwellings.
Grilled or skewered meats, often seasoned with spices and served with bread, rice, or vegetables.
A selection of small dishes, often including dips like hummus, baba ganoush, and various salads.
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey or syrup.
These months offer pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The tourist crowds are manageable, and the prices are relatively lower compared to the summer peak season.
Turkish Lira (TRY)
GMT+3
220VV, 50HzHz
Turkey is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, scams, and occasional political protests can occur. Stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Istanbul Sirkeci Station, Istanbul Haydarpaşa Station
Istanbul Bus Terminal (Otogar), Ankara Bus Terminal
The metro system in Istanbul is efficient and covers major attractions. Other cities have smaller metro networks.
Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Uber
Car, Bike, Scooter
A group of islands known for their peaceful atmosphere, historic mansions, and horse-drawn carriages. Perfect for a relaxing escape from the city.
Known as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa offers a rich history, beautiful mosques, and the famous Uludağ mountain for outdoor activities.
The ancient city of Troy, famous for the Trojan War and its archaeological significance. The site features the iconic Trojan Horse and well-preserved ruins.
Price varies by option